Spa News

BABOR’s New Campaign Amplifies EmpowermentIssue: Fall 2018

BABOR Skin Care has launched Nashville AMP’d, a new empowerment campaign that builds on the messages of its All Woman Project. Encouraging women to feel confident about themselves, regardless of their appearance or perceived flaws, the new campaign showcases the stories of six Nashville recording artists, including Lindsay Ell, Kelleigh Bannen, Candi Carpenter, Mickey Guyton, Sarah Davidson, and Kalie Shor. The company has also created a limited-edition custom-sleeved Perfect Glow Ampoule Concentrate. The set includes seven concentrated, natural active beauty ampoules sealed in a single dose glass ampoule. Light-reflecting illuminating pigments create a natural glow and help even skin tone, while Perfection Peptide P3 promotes natural skin rejuvenation.

Formula and Package Innovations Rewarded at CPNAIssue: Fall 2018

The beauty industry applauded some of its brightest stars at the second annual Beauty Innovation & Design Awards (Beauty ID Awards), held in Las Vegas during the Cosmoprof North America (CPNA) 2018 exhibition in July. In choosing the winners, judges focused on unique designs and formulations, as well as innovation in user functionality. In addition, one Audience Choice winner was picked through thousands of online votes. In the Skin Professional category, Dermaflash was recognized for its exfoliating facial treatment, which comes packaged in a distinctive and luxurious soft-touch box featuring interior compartments that perfectly fit each element of the treatment. Other winners included Algenist’s GENIUS Liquid Collagen, HCT Group’s Jeremy Scott x MAC (Grand Winner), Yanbal International’s Liberatta Noire (Audience Choice Winner), Naturelab Tokyo, LiLu Lip Balm Pearl, Kocostar/Lip Mask, and Express Tubes’ Choose Green: Eco-Friendly Packaging (Sugarcane Tubes).

Facial Massage and Masks “to-go”Issue: Fall 2018

Estheticians can now enhance their clients’ massage with express mask treatments using the new Repêchage Glow and Go service, recently introduced by Professional Skin Care. With facial massages popping up at airports and department stores, the product can enrich the client experience in less than 30 minutes by applying sheet masks for brightening, calming, hydrating, and helping in reducing the signs of aging. A sheet mask collection for at-home use is also available. Step-by-step protocols on how to perform the customized treatments are provided to professionals who add these services to their spa or salon offerings.

Cosmoprof in NYCIssue: Summer 2018

Cosmoprof North America was held in New York City in June of this year. The beauty industry event, which was held at the Library at NeuHouse, featured 11 specifically curated beauty products from across the world including Brazil’s Bijoux De Pele, South Korea’s Botanic Farm, Norway’s Eleni & Chris, and France’s Pour Moi. Cosmoprof North America is organized by North American Beauty Events LLC, a joint-venture company between the Professional Beauty Association and BolognaFiere Cosmoprof S.p.a.

The Global Wellness Institute has announced its newly created Research Fellow position will be filled by Tonia Callender. The experienced research expert specializes in conducting economic and legal research and analysis to support decisions about projects, strategy and investments. Before joining the Global Wellness Institute, Callender worked with the non-profit research institute, SRI International, and consulted for a wide range of international clients. Currently, Callender is focusing on wellness, spa and other tourism sectors across the globe. Callender’s appointment to the position of Research Fellow is in line with GWI’s current two-year mission to generate a wide-ranging body of research that will include a complete update of the Global Wellness Economy Monitor, to be released in October at the 2018 Global Wellness Summit in Cesena, Italy. There will also be an updated report on the Global Wellness Tourism Economy, to be released in November 2018, and the first ever report on the Global Fitness and Mind-Body Sector, which will be released at the 2019 Global Wellness Summit.

New Wellness App Developed in MontrealIssue: Summer 2018

A new auto-coaching app designed in Montreal allows users to rate and manage their well-being. The app, called inpowr, facilitates daily routines and practices by guiding the user toward concrete steps that can be incorporated proactively into their lifestyle. The app customizes simple everyday steps by receiving prompts and feedback, helping the user to design their own tailor-made plan to manage the negative effects of stress and restore a state of well-being. “For 15 years we have been working on developing inpowr inspired by the principles and practices of Serge Jeudy, a recognized researcher and Master Olympic Coach,” says inpowr co-founder and CEO Michel Chionini. The inpowr app is available at the Apple Store and will soon be available on Play Store for Android devices, both in English and French.

Cosmoprof Showcases Leading Beauty Trends From Across the GlobeIssue: Spring 2018

On February 19, Cosmoprof North America (CPNA) co-hosted a teaser of the latest global beauty trends at the Ron Robinson Flagship Store in Santa Monica, California. The event featured trends discovered at three of Cosmoprof’s global events hosted in Bologna, Hong Kong and Las Vegas.
The event included a panel discussion, which allowed a unique opportunity to hear from recognized tastemakers and trendsetters. The discussion was hosted by recognized beauty experts, including Daniela Ciocan, Marketing Director of CPNA, and Arthur Chipman, Producer of LA Fashion Week.
“Cosmoprof is the only beauty platform that offers a truly global showcase to the industry,” said Ciocan.
The event featured several brands from each of their previous events, many of them making their U.S. debut. Trends highlighted included: girl power, sustainability, portability, cooling, and the marriage of beauty and technology.

Mehrens Academy, founded by make-up artist Linda Mehrens Flodin, has achieved accreditation as a standalone CIDESCO Media Make-up School.
The Swedish make-up school will welcome candidates later this year. The Diploma syllabus aims to give students an internationally recognized qualification to prepare them for the make-up artist industry. The course is a complete training program, requiring no previous make-up knowledge.

Mehrens Academy says students will benefit from some of the best guest teachers in Scandinavia who worked with famous names like Kate Moss, with campaigns such as Dior, and with magazines like Vogue.

The course includes 350 hours training in diverse disciplines and requires candidates to produce a valuable portfolio of work, marked by internationally recognized CIDESCO professionals.

“Through our courses, students will not only receive the most comprehensive knowledge and an internationally recognized qualification as a professional make-up artist, but through our connections they will also have a direct link to everything that happens in the industry,” says Mehrens Flodin.

Allure Body Bar ExpandsIssue: Spring 2018

Allure Body Bar, voted top wax bar in Toronto by Top Choice Awards, recently opened its new Vaughan, ON, location.
Allure Body Bar offers a wide range of services, including its trademark Quickzillian Brazilian Wax, a service that takes eight minutes or less. The process focuses on speed while offering a high degree of efficiency. The wax bar focuses on making all services inclusive for both women and men.

The wax bar is a family business owned by couple Frank and Ala’a Abassi. After being drawn to the art of waxing more than 14 years ago, Ala’a perfected her unique style of waxing and designed Allure’s services to help everyone look and feel their very best.
“At Allure Body Bar, our mission is to promote body confidence,” says Ala’a. “We attract a wide range of clients and ensure that that they receive the best service possible.”

Members of the global wellness industry recently launched the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA), a not-for-profit, privately-held organization designed to serve what is, according to the Global Wellness Institute, a $563 billion sector. WTA will be a network of and for qualifying members of the wellness tourism industry. Its objectives will be to help define the industry, as well as educate consumers to recognize legitimate and credible wellness suppliers and operators. Madeleine Marentette, founder of the award-winning Grail Springs Retreat Centre for Wellbeing, has joined the newly created WTA as a member of its board of directors. “I’m delighted to be included in this group of industry leaders who are dedicated to helping travellers locate the best destinations to nourish their mind, body and spirit,” Marentette says. Membership in the WTA will be open to qualifying destination marketing organizations, hotels and resorts, destination spas, tour operators, travel advisors, wellness educators and others with an interest in supporting the industry. For more information, please visit
WellnessTourismAssociation.org

Comfort Zone Launches Skin Regimen 2.0Issue: Winter 2017

Comfort Zone unveiled their Skin Regimen 2.0 brand at an event in Toronto, in January. The event featured neuroscientist Claudia Aguirre, who spoke about Skin Regimen 2.0’s formulations and their basis in modern plant chemistry, as well as the brand’s clinically proven ability to reduce the effects of stress on the skin. A highlight of the Skin Regimen 2.0 product launch was a demonstration of Skin Regimen’s new Urban Longevity Facial done by Helena Holden, Comfort Zone International Education Manager. The facial treatment incorporates massage techniques and macro wave sounds, and focuses on prevention of four factors that age the skin: DNA methylation, inflammation, oxidation and glycation. Skin Regimen 2.0 is the second iteration of a brand that was created by Comfort Zone, the skin care division of Davines, an Italian company founded in 1983. Comfort Zone has a selective high-end distribution in the professional cosmetic market in over 90 countries today.

YYC Gets a Beauty Vending MachineIssue: Winter 2017

Calgary International Airport (YYC) will become home to Benefit Cosmetics’ Glam Up & Away automatic retail kiosk this spring. Benefit Cosmetics is a San Francisco-based beauty brand known for its creative packaging and irreverent product names. The Glam Up & Away vending machine is a fun and creative instant beauty solution for travelers on the go, and will be packed with Benefit Cosmetics’ Brow Collection, They’re real! mascara and the POREfessional pore minimizing primer, as well as travel-sized make-up kits. The Benefit Cosmetics kiosk is designed to look like vintage pink beauty buses complete with cheeky slogans and Benefit's famous mannequins. Busy jetsetters will have instant access to Benefit’s bestselling products and can browse tips and tricks on the graphic user interface. “High-traffic airports are the next beauty battleground for prestige cosmetic brands,” says Jean-Andre Rougeot, CEO of Benefit Cosmetics. “Benefit has been successful as the pioneer in selective makeup self-serve vending machines in U.S. airports and is excited to expand this concept into Canada.”

Montreal’s New Five-Star Hotel

Le Mount Stephen Hotel has received a five-star classification certificate from the Corporation de l’industrie touristique du Quebec (CITQ). The CITQ grants five-star status to a select few establishments that demonstrate excellence in an evaluation based on six criteria: rooms, bathrooms, food services, interior improvements, building exterior, as well as services, activities and facilities on the premises (this includes spas). Le Mount Stephen Hotel is a luxury location in downtown Montreal that opened last spring. The hotel has 90 rooms and suites, a ballroom, a reception room and several private lounges, and is home to the MBIOSPA Prestige and Bar George restaurant.

CIDESCO Gets Creative with Body Art in India

The CIDESCO World Congress’s annual Make-up & Body Art competition recognizes skilled and creative makeup artists, and is open to both students and professionals. At the 65th CIDESCO World Congress, held September in Mumbai, India, entrants were tasked with creating unique looks based on the theme “Five Elements of Nature”. The winning artists created dramatic body art using props, prosthetics, make-up and hairstyling to enhance their ideas. The competition called for all areas of the body on display to emulate the artist’s theme within a five-hour period. The artists then presented their work on-stage accompanied by music they selected themselves to support the concept of their art. The judging panel was made up of some of CIDESCO’s most experienced professionals, including Godard Koremans, Joma de Roos, Julie Lew, Julia Leone, Jyotsna Thopte and Beverley Crowther. Winning the Student Category was Bhushan Sutar, whose creation was entitled, “The Importance of Being in Nature”. Runners up were Manisha Gauhane with “Creation of the Universe” and Swati Vangi with “Water and Fire Disaster”. In the Professional Category, Kiran Manjrekar took first place with “Mother Nature”. Runners up were Jiten Giri with “Pancha Mahabuta”, a Sanskrit term meaning “five great elements”, and Ashish Galande with “The Relationship between the 5 Elements of Nature & God”.

Canadian Spa Receives International Recognition

The Top New Spa winner of the 2015 Canadian Spa and Wellness Awards, iwa Spa, has gained international recognition as a luxury wellness spa. iwa Spa was awarded Luxury Wellness Spa of the Year, Canada at the 2017 World Luxury Spa Awards Gala Ceremony hosted by the JW Marriott Hanoi, Vietnam in July. Award winners were selected through a combination of nomination and spa guest voting. “This is our seventh significant award since we opened less than two years ago [in September 2015],” says Michelle Ubell, Owner, iwa Spa. “I’m so glad to see our focus on wellness and delivering an outstanding guest experience be recognized.” In addition to its World Luxury Award, iwa Spa has also been awarded Best Hidden Gem & Top Spa for Yoga in 2016, Top Luxury Spa Ontario 2016, Top 25 Spas in Canada 2016, and 2016 Collingwood Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards for Services, Industry and Trades. iwa Spa is a full service wellness spa, based in Blue Mountain Village, Ontario, which opened its doors in July 2015.

Massage Addict Opens 75th Clinic

Massage Addict Inc., Canada’s largest registered massage therapy company, opened its 75th clinic in September, in Red Deer, Alberta. Franchise owner and Registered Massage Therapist, Cora Hasna, opened her doors on September 19 in the Timberland area of Red Deer. Hasna, who has been an RMT since 2011, says she was impressed with the level of support she received from Massage Addict throughout the four-month franchising process, which included walking her through a detailed schedule of tasks leading right up to opening day. “The timeline is very detailed and the whole process has made all the hard work much easier,” she says. All franchisees are guided by Massage Addict’s head office through everything from finding a site to construction, training, recruiting, opening day and beyond. “Our focus is simple: It is support, support, and more support,” says Fraser Clarke, CEO, Massage Addict. “We continue to put an emphasis on infrastructure, training, and keeping the lines of communication open between the franchisees and HQ to ensure the highest quality treatments and an exceptional work culture.”

CIDESCO Says Yes To Wellness

CIDESCO celebrated Global Wellness Day this year by encouraging its international audience of over 50,000 to share a wellness “Thought of the Day” across all social media platforms. On June 10, social media users employed the hashtags #GWDwithCIDESCO and #GlobalWellnessDay to share their thoughts. Those thoughts will later be curated and published in the next issue of CIDESCO’s LINK Magazine. CIDESCO also encouraged its followers to commit to the seven-step wellness manifesto:

Walk for an hour

Drink more water

Don’t use plastic bottles

Eat healthy food

Do a good deed

Have a family dinner with your loved ones

Sleep at 10 pm.

“It’s fantastic to see that year on year Global Wellness Day is reaching a larger audience and that more and more of our schools, students and graduates are practising the tips not just for the day but in their daily lives,” says CIDESCO President Anna-Cari Gund. “Wellness is incredibly important to us and something that we hope all CIDESCO members prioritise in their lives to ensure a happy and fulfilling work-life balance.”

Spa and Wellness Trend Report from Raison d’Etre

Raison d’Etre, a global spa consultancy and wellness think tank, has launched their mid-year trends report for spa, hotel and lifestyle operators. The team identified seven trends from #Hashtag treatments to Nutritarianism that will begin to grow in popularity in the latter half of 2017 and beyond.

The Power of Brains – an increase in demand for mental wellness, brain workouts and stimulating activities within spas and health clubs

Optimized Living – working with material, light, air and sound to improve sleep quality

Kids Wellness – a response to lots of reports and media attention on wellness among children at home, in school and during travel and vacations, contributing to their development

Accessible & Affordable Wellness – creating more varied packages that help to make aspects of spa more accessible with more flexibility with mixing and matching package offerings

Hashtag Treatments – maximising as much as possible with social media obsessions and trends and also working closely with influential individuals and celebrities

The Contrasts – A focus on connectivity, information overdose and silent retreats, the contrasts in our daily lives in terms of exercise, temperature and food, and incorporating trend-lead diets such as the 5:2

Skin and Eye Specialists Team Up To Promote UV Protection

The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) and the Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) have partnered to develop a standard for UV protection of non-prescription sunglasses. The standard verifies the level of UV protection offered by sunglasses. Until now, makers of eyewear have displayed a tiny oval sticker at the corner of lenses that make claims such as “100% UV protection” without there being an independent third-party program to verify that claim. The Eye Sun Protection Program creates just that. The program is voluntary and allows manufacturers to license the logo and submit their product, along with evidence, for review by a panel of dermatologists and ophthalmologists to assess if their product in fact offers the UV protection claimed. “When people think of sun protection, the first – and often only – thing that comes to mind is their skin. But many Canadians aren’t aware that the eyes are also vulnerable to UV damage,” says Dr. Mariusz Sapijaszko, CDA President. In addition to protecting the eyes, protective eyewear also shields the delicate skin around the eye. Brief excessive exposure to UV light, like taking in a baseball game or a day at the beach without adequate eye protection, can produce a burn on the eye’s surface – much like sunburn affects skin.

An Open Letter to Spa Professionals and Spa Goers

This year, the Spa Industry Association of Canada (SIAC) is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The association started as the result of a small group of destination spas that saw a need for a professional association to promote the industry within Canada and globally. And, over the years, our mandate has grown to include education and knowledge sharing, standards and best practices, and networking through conferences and events.

Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain Expands

Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain has expanded its facilities with the addition of a new infra-red sauna, an indoor relaxation room and an outdoor deck area overlooking a natural pond. Altogether, the expansion adds 1,500 sq. ft. to the spa and adds to its offering of hot baths, Finnish sauna, eucalyptus steam room, thermal and Nordic waterfalls, cold plunges, fireplaces, and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain is already one of the largest spas in Canada and the only outdoor nature spa in Ontario.

Canadian Spa Supplier Fetes 10th Birthday

L’Moor, an Ontario-based supplier of spa and wellness products, supplies, equipment, and education, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
“Starting a very tiny business in 2006, we were immediately grateful for our vendors and clients who had faith in us,” co-owner Bonnie Annis says. “Entrepreneurship is often fraught with worry, doubt and stress, but the rewards are plentiful.”

To mark their 10th anniversary, Roderick and Annis planned a year-long celebration that culminated in the inaugural LEAD Spa and Wellness Conference on March 27, 2017. The conference offered the opportunity for the spa industry to explore leadership and education as a way to advance and define their businesses. Keynote speaker Peter Shankman invited attendees to harness the power of social media as a way to springboard their business to success. The author and entrepreneur is recognized internationally for inspiring radical new ways of thinking about customer service, social media, PR, and marketing.

In addition to the LEAD Conference, L’Moor has been celebrating its anniversary by featuring its loyal clients on its website and travelling the province offering training courses for spa therapists, estheticians, and independent foot care nurses, among others.

New Spa Coming to Elora Mill, Ontario

A new hotel and spa is slated to be built in 2018 as part of a restoration of an historic grist mill in Elora, Ontario. An official groundbreaking ceremony took place in December 2016 to kick off the development project, which will be compromised of two phases: the heritage restoration of the original Elora Mill and its neighbouring buildings, and the development of the south side of Grand River.

Phase One of the development project will involve the construction of the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, which will include 30 luxurious suites and stunning views over the Grand River. The spa will be situated along the cliff of the picturesque Elora Gorge and offer a wide range of custom treatments dedicated to health, wellness and relaxation. Also overlooking the river will be a restaurant and bar, enclosed in glass and cantilevered over the rushing river below.
The Elora Mill Hotel & Spa will uphold a standard of authenticity in its design by embracing local elements like curated art and finely crafted furnishings, as well as classically inspired restaurant dishes from selectively sourced local ingredients. The restoration project will be mindful of environmental sustainability by using a brand new hydro turbine that will harness the current of the Grand River to create one mega-watt of electricity, enough to power the entire development upon completion.
Both phases of the Elora Mill project will take five years and $120 million to complete.

Cutline: The Photo is the Artist’s rendering of Elora Mill Hotel. Courtesy of Pearle Hospitality.

Men and Baby Boomers Becoming More Image-Conscious

Although image-consciousness is a trait traditionally associated with women and young adults, men and older generations are becoming more susceptible to its influence as their desire to impress peers and colleagues is growing, according to consumer insight firm Canadean.

The company’s report that states our increasingly visually oriented society often means consumers associate image with success. While women are 1.3 times more likely to feel pressured to look good than men, both genders associate appearance with success in personal and professional lives, with 66 per cent of women and 61 per cent of men subscribing to this belief.

There has been an increase in the number of occasions men use skin care products. For example, among major global economies, men used skin care products on 453 billion occasions in 2011, which shot up to 557 billion occasions in 2015.

This marks a narrowing of the age and gender disparities in the beauty market, says Veronika Zhupanova, an analyst for Canadean. “With image-consciousness becoming ever-more pervasive among aging populations in developed economies and the pension age rising, competition to look good among this demographic will drive demand in categories such as anti-aging skincare and make-up, as consumers seek to impress employers and appear as dynamic as younger colleagues,” Zhupanova says.

The Ten Spot Turns Ten

The Ten Spot turned 10 years old this year and it celebrated by offering customers free services at all 18 locations on Aug. 10. In conjunction with the momentous anniversary, The Ten Spot opened another Toronto location on Sept. 9, the company’s 18th location in Canada.
The Canadian beauty bar and self-proclaimed “anti-spa” was founded by entrepreneur Kristen Wood in 2006 to combine the affordability of a low-end salon and the quality of a high-end spa.
“I had a burning desire to start my own business as a young adult and set out to fill a gap in service offerings in the beauty industry, starting with Toronto,” Wood says. “With our rapid growth I was able to give other driven and passionate entrepreneurs the same opportunity and freedom of owning a small business, and I want to continue helping young women thrive in their careers and life through our partnership with Dress for Success affiliates in Canada.”
As part of its partnership with Dress for Success, a global charity that provides professional attire to help women re-enter the job market, The Ten Spot collects unopened makeup, beauty products or gently-used business accessories such as purses, shoes and belts from customers.
Cutline: The Ten Spot celebrated its 10th anniversary at its HBC and Queen West locations in Toronto.

Massage Addict Expanding

Canada’s largest membership-based registered massage therapy company is enjoying an expansion boom. Massage Addict Inc. opened 26 clinics in August 2014 and plans to open 11 more by the end of 2016, bringing the total number of clinics to 70. The latest clinic openings are a result of Massage Addict’s new franchise partners opening their first clinics, as well as existing partners expanding beyond one clinic.

In June, three Massage Addict clinics opened in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Brampton, Ontario; and Calgary, Alberta. In August three new clinics opened in Ontario, in Guelph, Toronto and Ottawa. During the fall months, Massage Addict will be opening locations in Edmonton, as well as in Toronto, Mississauga and Burlington, Ontario.

Massage Addict was founded in 2008 to provide clients with access to quality massage therapy from registered massage therapists at affordable prices and convenient locations. President and CEO Fraser Clarke says the company plans to continue expanding in 2017.

The Canadian-Caribbean Deal

Nova Scotia’s Fox Harb’r Resort has teamed up with Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina in the British Virgin Islands to offer a unique deal to residents at both resorts. Residents at Fox Harb’r’s executive townhomes and custom designed homes will be entitled to a complimentary one-week stay in a one bedroom ocean view suite at Scrub Island Resort during their first three years of ownership. In return, Scrub Island residents will be entitled to a complimentary one-week stay in a Harb’r Stone Village Town Home at Fox Harb’r Resort. The Nova Scotia resort is located eight kilometres from Fox Harb’r Provincial Park and offers golf courses, sports shooting, a deep sea marina, spa facilities, and fine dining, as well as accommodations and private residences.

“We believe our residents will feel very much at home at Scrub Island, as both properties feature the same level of unparalleled luxury, service and recreational options,” says Kevin Toth, Fox Harb’r President.

Women Want to Feel More Confident, Not Look Younger

The reasons women seek medical esthetic treatments have changed, according to a report commissioned by Allergan. The report, The Changing Face of Beauty: A Global Report, captures opinions on beauty and aging from nearly 8,000 women in 16 countries.

“When it comes to women’s beauty goals some key cultural differences are apparent. In Europe women embrace ageing naturally and subtly,” says Caroline Van Hove, Senior Vice President of International Medical Aesthetics at Allergan. “In Asian markets, women want a more obvious transformation, while in the Middle East women want to look more beautiful with fast, enhancing results that accentuate their best features. What is especially exciting about this new research is the discovery that women around the world are united by an increasing desire to control how their looks evolve with time.”
The report found that for women seeking esthetic treatment, 42 per cent considered a boost in their self-confidence as equally important as improving their physical appearance. Almost three quarters (74 per cent) of women stated they made the effort to look good primarily for themselves. General beautification was seen as a bigger motivator for seeking out beauty treatments over addressing signs of aging, except in China where changing or enhancing a specific feature was the key trigger.

Crystal-Infused Skin Care

Andrea Sazwan wanted her line of body care products to be allergen-free, as well as physically and spiritually nurturing. That’s why the Canadian entrepreneur infused her products with beneficial organic herbs and high-vibration crystals. The idea of Crystal Hills Organics came to Sazwan when her young twins were diagnosed with a number of allergies and she had difficulty finding products that didn’t contain irritants, sensitizers and harsh chemicals. With her background in bioscience and occupational health and safety, as well as being a chartered herbalist and reiki master healer, Sazwan decided she wanted to make unique formulations that anyone could benefit from, whether or not they suffered from allergies.

Crystal Hills Organics products utilize all-natural formulas made by incorporating the active components of botanicals as well as the healing energetic traits of crystals, Sazwan says. At first she says she thought the product line might be something only new agers and hippies would be interested in, but she has received an overwhelming number of orders since she launched the brand.

Cutline for this image: Canadian company infuses body care products with crystals and organic botanicals (CNW Group/Crystal Hill Organics Inc.)

Alberta funds development of bioproducts

Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions (AI Bio) has approved funding for 61 projects it says will add value to Alberta’s renewable resources. Nearly $13 million in grants will go to researchers and companies that will develop new industrial bioproducts or technologies using Alberta agriculture and forestry byproducts or other biomass.

The funding is part of an effort to diversify and strengthen the Alberta economy, as well as reduce the province’s reliance on fossil fuel exports. Bioproducts and bioindustrial technologies have the potential to partially or fully replace petroleum-based products and energy sources, thereby potentially lowering GHG emissions and reducing the carbon footprint.

The approved projects span the research and innovation continuum from early applied research to commercialization. In addition to AI Bio funding, 25 projects also receive industry funding. The researchers and companies carrying out the projects are using a variety of biomass types to develop or produce advanced biomaterials, biofuels, biochemicals or biocomposites for a broad range of applications. Examples include biofuels for transport and bioproducts that can be used in the energy, construction, forestry or manufacturing sectors. Numerous projects involve cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) for construction, manufacturing or medical applications.

“Alberta is blessed with abundant biomass in our forests and crops, advanced infrastructure and universities, and highly qualified personnel in our academic community and bioindustrial sector,” says Steve Price, CEO, AI Bio. “AI Bio works as a catalyst to bring these together to accelerate growth in an area with great potential.”

Photo credit: Steve Price, CEO, AI Bio

Canadian scientist chosen as Special Ambassador for International Year of Pulses

A Canadian researcher has been nominated by the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) as a Special Ambassador for the International Year of Pulses 2016. Dr. Joyce Boye is a research scientist with the Food Research and Development Centre of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Boye’s research activities focus on developing techniques for the isolation, extraction and characterization of proteins from plant sources and identifying areas of application for the food industry. Her appointment as Special Ambassador was announced during an event hosted by the FAO in Washington, DC, in June.

Canadian innovators work to improve global health

Grand Challenges Canada has committed scale-up funding to six Canadian projects that aim to improve global health. The new investments, matched by a wide range of partners, will enable the innovators to advance the development of their technologies and will build on significant results from seed projects also funded by Grand Challenges Canada. This included projects by innovators from companies based in BC, Ontario and Quebec, partnering with groups in several African countries.

Arbutus Medical of Vancouver, conducted clinical trials in East Africa to develop a safe, affordable drill cover system for bone surgeons to reduce tool cost and improve infection control practices. KA Imaging of Waterloo, Ontario, developed a prototype of a high-resolution X-ray imager that can achieve the same levels of accuracy as a conventional chest X-ray, at a significantly lower X-ray dose and cost. Sympact-X and the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, Quebec, developed a smartphone-based HIV self-test app called HIVSmart! that can help identify undiagnosed HIV cases and people at risk of infection.

Based on these outcomes funded by Grand Challenges Canada, the innovators will now receive “transition-to-scale” investments. The new funding, totalling $5 million, will be doubled by partners in the six projects, creating a total investment of $10 million.

Image Skincare Launches New Products in Toronto

As part of its global new products launch, Image Skincare hosted a party in Toronto in April. Founder and CEO Janna Ronert was at the Four Seasons Hotel to announce the launch of several new anti-aging products.

Ronert spoke about how her struggle with rosacea prompted her to develop skincare products to treat the condition. She also spoke about Image Skincare’s non-profit Care for Skin Foundation – on which she works with her husband and its founder – Dr. Marc Ronert. The foundation provides surgery and skin replacement to the underprivileged around the world.

Similar events took place throughout March and April in major cities around the world where estheticians, physicians and skincare professionals were invited to try out new products and place orders.

“This year will be the biggest launch in company history,” Ronert said before the launch. “We are launching 33 new SKUs and an entirely new category [called IBeauty].”

GlamApp Academy Lectures on Ardell Lashes

Ardell Lashes recently partnered with the creators of on-demand beauty app, GlamApp Academy, to develop a live tutorial on its Wispie lashes. GlamApp stylists tuned in to the livestream to listen to celebrity makeup artist and hair stylist Joey Maalouf discuss how to use Ardell Indiviual lashes to create a subtle, no-makeup look. GlamApp, created by Maalouf and actress Cara Santana, launched in 2015. With the touch of a button, the beauty app connects clients with top stylists in more than 23 cities in the U.S., allowing them to order hair, makeup and nail services directly to their home, office or hotel.

All the stylists who attended the Ardell Lashes live tutorial received gift bags containing Maalouf’s favorite Ardell Lash styles and DUO adhesive.

B.C. Launches Canada’s First Wellness Rewards Program

A mobile app launched in British Columbia rewards residents for leading healthy lifestyles. Users across the province who sign up for Carrot Rewards will be able to earn their choice of leading, brand name loyalty points for completing activities centred on making healthier lifestyle choices. This can include anything from completing a health profile, to participating in learning activities and quizzes, and in later phases will include activities like going to the gym, visiting a flu clinic, or buying produce from the grocery store. The app is also designed to link up with wearable devices in later stages to track and reward healthy behaviour.

Carrot Rewards users will receive points such as Aeroplan, PetroPoints, Scene and MoreRewards for their efforts. “By promoting physical fitness and providing tips and information on how to make healthier choices, we’re helping British Columbians to make their health a priority,” says Terry Lake, B.C.’s Minister of Health. “We soon hope to see the rest of Canada following in our footsteps.”

The app is one of many partnerships made under the federal government’s Multi-Sectoral Partnerships to Promote Healthy Living and Prevent Chronic Disease program, which invests $20 million per year in innovative projects and partnerships that focus on addressing common risk factors, such as unhealthy eating, physical inactivity, and smoking, to prevent chronic disease.

Eminence Plants 5 Million Trees

Since 2012, Eminence Organic Skin Care has been partnering with global tree planting organization Trees for the Future to create its own program – Forests for the Future – in which the brand plants a tree for every retail product sold. As of March 31, 2016, five million trees have been planted as part of the initiative.

In four years, Eminence has planted trees in 19 developing countries around the world including Burundi, Uganda, Ghana and Tanzania. The Forests for the Future initiative enables Eminence’s tree planting partners’ field teams to empower farmers to restore the land and provide food and a sustainable future for the region's inhabitants.

“We’re dedicated to helping create a sustainable planet through our partnership with Trees for the Future, offering farmers in communities around the world an opportunity to maintain their own sustainable business and feed their families,” says Boldijarre Koronczay, President of Eminence Organic Skin Care. “Reaching this incredible milestone of five million trees planted only strengthens our mission for a positive impact around the world, the environment and the fight against deforestation.”

A single tree produces approximately 260 pounds of oxygen per year, while also providing a habitat for biodiversity and helping to combat climate change. To celebrate this achievement and bring awareness to why planting trees is such an important cause, Eminence has produced a two-minute animated video (eminenceorganics.com/5milliontrees). For every share of the video on social media, Eminence will plant a tree (up to 100,000).

Salon Video Network Goes Mobile

Gloss Media, a Nielsen-rated salon video network in the U.S., has partnered with inMarket, a major beacon and proximity platform, to bring its content to salon clients’ mobile phones. This exclusive agreement will bring the microlocation engagement power of beacons to salons across the U.S. and enable brands to engage women precisely when they’re in the salon and receptive to messaging.

Salons facilitate heavy mobile usage by patrons – 90% of whom are female, and 65% of whom are moms – who visit for an average of 60 minutes. This hour of downtime facilitates heavy mobile usage, creating a tremendous opportunity for brands to reach a highly coveted audience while they’re in “errand mode.” U.S. nail salons receive more than 1.9 billion customer visits per year.

Through the new partnership, Gloss Media will gain access to inMarket’s 44.5 million monthly active users (per comScore, January 2016) across major apps.

Erratums

In our Spring 2016 issue, we reported that The Nordik Group was partnering with other businesses to develop LeBreton Flats in Ottawa. It would be more accurate to say that The Nordik Group, along with other key partners, has partnered with the Devcore, Canderel DLS Group, who put forward the LeBreton Re-Imagined project proposal.

In the “Spa Software” article that featured in our Winter 2015-16 issue, we mistakenly quoted Andrea Fisher, Spa Manager of Ancient Cedars Spa, as saying that Ancient Cedars’ spa software “allows guests to book their own appointments online, display all the details of a guest’s booking for the spa therapists when they arrive, and allows the spa to follow up with the guest after a visit.” The quote was about spa software in general, not about Ancient Cedars Spa’s software.

Urban Nordic spa in the works for Ottawa

Sometime in the future, downtown Ottawa will be graced with a Nordik Spa. The Nordik Group is partnering with other businesses in the LeBreton Re-Imagined project, which seeks to develop the LeBreton Flats, a 58-acre parcel of vacant land located just west of Parliament Hill. The development project will include a number of public venues and activities that will serve the public interest such as community green spaces, cultural and historical museums, an aquarium and a planetarium.

“As a Canadian leader in the spa industry, and being truthful to its tradition of innovation, the Nordik Group’s vision is to develop a new urban spa concept to be unique to Canada,” says Daniel Gingras, Co-owner and Vice-president, Corporate Development of le Nordik Spa. “It will be a new relaxing experience oriented toward health and well-being.”

Nordik Group is joined by such organizations as Ripley’s Entertainment Inc., which plans to establish a Ripley’s Blue Planet Pavilion on the site, SPIN Skatepark, Trans Canada Trail, and Family YMCA. A variety of housing, retail outlets, office space, and community services will also be created as part of the project.

A secret medi spa

Imagine a medi spa that provided discreet cosmetic treatments for its clients in a luxurious setting and lets them slip out the back door once it’s done. That’s exactly what It’s a Secret Med Spa had in mind when it opened in Dallas, TX, in February. The 1,750-sq. ft. facility offers the latest medical aesthetic services for face and body, experienced medi spa staff, and above all, discretion.
“We have a back entrance so clients can come in through the back, pay in their treatment room and leave through the back so no one knows they’ve been here,” says General Manager Lydia Speck. “You’ll look the best you’ve ever looked and everyone will ask how you’ve done it, but we’ll never tell your secret.”
It’s a Secret Med Spa celebrated its grand opening with a red carpet event. The medi spa will create customized treatment plans for clients who have not seen results with previous procedures, as well as for those who are interested in preventative measures.

Skin care brand wins big

Vancouver-based skin care brand Éminence Organic Skin Care has been awarded the 2015 American Spa Professional Choice Awards for Favorite Skin Care Line and Favorite Company for Product Education. This is the seventh year in a row the brand has received these awards, in addition to winning recognition for being the Favorite Body Care Line and Favorite All-Natural Line of American Spa magazine readers and spa industry professionals.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continuing support and recognition of the products we are passionate about,” says Boldijarre Koronczay, President of Éminence Organic Skincare, who himself received the International SPA Association’s 2015 Visionary Award. “Our dedication is to providing high-quality natural, organic and Biodynamic skin care that delivers results and continues to resonate with our loyal spa partners and consumers.”
Éminence Organic Skin Care is dedicated to educating and training aestheticians on the benefits of organic skin care, new products, industry trends and innovative technology. The brand maintains a presence at North American tradeshows, holding demonstrations, interacting with attendees and providing training programs for spa treatment professionals.

Olivia Pope partners with OPI

OPI Products Inc. has announced actress Kerry Washington will become its first-ever Creative Ambassador. The Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actress will be responsible for co-curating nail lacquer shades and developing shade names with OPI co-founder and brand ambassador Suzi Weiss-Fishchmann, as well as sourcing inspiration for and consulting on various creative projects for the company.

“I am a huge fan of OPI and was ecstatic when Suzi approached me to partner with the brand,” says Washington. “I’m so inspired by Suzi and what she has built with the OPI brand. OPI’s broad spectrum of fashionable colours and iconic names have become an industry standard.”
“One of my favorite shows is ‘Scandal,’” says Weiss-Fischmann, noting that Washington, who plays the show’s main character, Olivia Pope, is a role model for women everywhere. “She is bold, fashionable and loves nail lacquer.”

Skincare Brand Hosts - WORLDWIDE LAUNCH

Global skincare brand Image Skincare is hosting product launch parties all over the world this year. This spring, events will take place in cities across the globe that will invite estheticians, physicians and spa , salon and skincare professionals to take a closer look at Image Skincare’s new products.
“This year will be the biggest launch in company history,” says CEO and Founder Janna Ronert. “We are launching 33 new SKUs and an entirely new category.”
The Image Skincare Worldwide Launch Party is coming to Toronto on April 5, with an Old Hollywood glamour theme and exclusive offers for attendees.

Possible cellulite-busting treatment in the works

Pharmaceutical company Endo International has announced the cellulite treatment it is developing has entered a second round of clinical trials. Endo has been studying the use of a collagen, known as collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH), to treat edematous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy, commonly known as cellulite. If CCH proves successful in clinical trials and is approved by the FDA, it could become the first biological treatment for cellulite available in the U.S.
“Cellulite affects millions of U.S. women, dimpling their skin, impacting their appearance and causing bother and self-consciousness for many,” says Dr. Susan Hall, Executive Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer and Global Head of R&D and Quality at Endo. “There are no FDA-approved pharmacological options for cellulite and many currently available treatment options have not demonstrated a scientific benefit.”
Endo expects to enroll 350 women aged 18 years and older in its U.S. clinical trial. Twelve injections will be administered to cellulite dimples during each treatment session, approximately 21 days apart, and later measured for improvement according to a five-point scale system.

New Training Course Seeks to Boost Spa Retail Product Sales

Introverts are the most common personality type among spa therapists, according to Linda Harding-Bond, an award-winning esthetician and founder of Moontide Consulting. Introverted therapists may be more hesitant about selling to spa clients or deliver advice to clients in a manner that naturally leads to increased retail purchases. This may be part of the reason why 40 per cent of companies in the U.S. salon/spa industry expected to have flat or declining performance in 2014, according to a report by the Professional Beauty Association. To this end, Harding-Bond has developed a retail training course designed specifically for introverts called, “Increasing Your Retail Selling: An Online Training Class for Spa Managers”. The course includes templates for therapist assessment, customer role-plays and customer engagement scenarios. Students will also participate in a live weekly video conference with Harding-Bond. The course is available online for immediate download.

L’Oréal Canada Inaugurates First Worldwide Content Factory

L’Oréal Canada has introduced the first worldwide Content Factory, a production studio located in its head office in Montreal. The company has invited its employees who want to create original content for their brands to use the studio to produce content such as video makeup tutorials and products reviews. L’Oréal Canada will provide professional lighting, photography, and video equipment, as well as the assistance of a professional photographer or creative director. The idea behind the Content Factory is to create content that has a creative focus and engages customers. “The Content Factory is an invaluable tool to achieve our objective of being more agile in social media and creating integrated brand communication,” says Frank Kollmar, President and CEO of L’Oréal Canada.

Grotto de Sal Brings Powers of Dead Sea Salt Water to Los Angeles

Grotto de Sal wellness spa has come to Los Angeles, bringing with it a variety of treatments that use Dead Sea salt. Co-Founder Elias Amkie was inspired to share the benefits of Dead Sea salt after he experienced them for himself. Amkie suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and he credits a trip to Israel and the rejuvenating properties of the Dead Sea’s salt waters for relieving his chronic pain. Grotto de Sal’s signature features include Dead Sea floating pools that contain minerals imported from Israel, and a salt room where guests can relax and breathe in a dry salt aerosol, a treatment known as halotherapy. In addition to its salt treatments, the wellness spa offers cryotherapy, the exposure of the body to extremely cold temperatures for about three minutes. The treatment is known to quicken recovery time after surgery, relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

ISPA Report shows U.S. Spa Industry Strength

The International Spa Association (ISPA) released its annual 2015 U.S. Spa Industry Study earlier this month, including statistics on the industry’s growth, its characteristics and drawing a profile of what the industry encompasses.
The major report includes in-depth details about the performance of this US$15.5 billion industry over the past year. Though a similar study has not been done on the Canadian industry, this report from our southern neighbours is a good indicator about how the spa industry is performing here at home.

Highlights from the report include:

Total revenue rose 5.3% over the prior year to $15.5 billion for 2014

Total number of spa visits rose 6.7% over 2013, to 176 million in 2014

Total number of locations was 20,660 at year-end 2014 (2.4% increase)

Total number of employees reached 360,000 at year-end 2014 (up 2.9% over the prior year)

Revenue per visit dropped 1.3% to $88

Average revenues per single spa location rose 2.9% to $749,000 in 2014

With the U.S. industry on a steady increase, the report reveals most spas have plans underway to build on that momentum to increase their business, including: 74% plan to add new treatments; 60% will add new product lines; and 46% of respondents mentioned a new spa or expansion of an existing location.

Salary survey launched by SIAC

This past summer, the Spa Industry Association of Canada launched a Spa Industry Compensation Strategies Survey, aiming to gather a snapshot of information specific to the Canadian spa industry with the primary focus on compensation rates. Further research is required for a more comprehensive understanding of compensation strategies and practices, however the results of this survey offer a solid high-level view as a starting point.

Of the 84 businesses that participated, more than 80% were spas (the rest spa partners), with the majority evenly split between day spas and destination spas. Respondents were spread across the country, with 42% in Ontario; 10.14% each in Quebec and Alberta; 7.25% in Manitoba; and another 7.5% combined for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan.

The 51-page report includes greater details, but highlights include the average compensation per hour rates for a number of typical spa professions including:

Nail Tech: $10-$21 per hour

Aesthetician: $10-$21 per hour plus commission

Medical Aesthetician: average wage point for laser $19-$21 per hour

Registered Massage Therapist: $10-$51 per hour (varied based on level). Additionally, 38% of RMTs are paid by commission.

Le Nordik celebrates one million visitors

Nestled in the lush Gatineau hills, Canada’s biggest Nordic spa, Le Nordik Spa-Nature, welcomed its one millionth customer on September 30. Spa-goer Diane Desrosiers won a year of relaxation for two, among other prizes.

A shining example of strategic development, commitment and creativity, Le Nordik Spa-Nature is a favourite hot spot for people in the Quebec region as well as nearby Ottawa – a sought-after destination for visitors to the nation’s capital.

Congratulations to the entire staff at Le Nordik – we look forward to meeting your two millionth client!

Potential health benefits of saunas

Time lollygagging in the sauna might be a good investment in your future, according to a recent study by the University of Eastern Finland. The study found that frequent time spent in saunas was associated with longer life and a reduced risk of cardiac-related deaths. The study followed 2,300 middle-aged men for two decades, and found that those who visited a sauna two to three times per week had a 24 percent lower risk of death, while those who hit the sauna four to seven times per week saw a 40 percent lower mortality risk, compared to only one sauna visit a week. Additionally, the amount of time spent in the sauna was an apparent factor. Participants who spent 19 minutes or more had a 52 percent less chance of cardiac death than those that spent less than 11 minutes per session sweating it out.

Though further studies are required, to include women, and seek a cause-and-effect relationship between sauna usage and longer lives, the study could lead to cardiologists rethinking their concerns about exposing their patients to the sauna heat. The researchers have suggested that the high heat and humidity in the sauna might lead to positive cardiovascular system changes, and added that stress reduction and relaxation associated with sauna time could be factors.

Crazy for hot springs

As the drive for natural, indigenous options has become one of the greatest travel trends globally, hot springs, also known as thermal or minerals springs, have been put in the limelight. A recent study by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) found that hot springs represent a $50 billion global market, with nearly 27,000 revenue-earning springs (those with constructed facilities) worldwide.
The study also found that while 20,343 (or roughly two-thirds) of the hot springs on the list do not offer additional spa services, those that do offer the spa services earned a total of $32 billion, or 64% of the industry revenue.
Here in Canada, there are a number of world-class hot springs, particularly in the Rockies, that are definitely worth a visit.

Number of quality assured spas continues to grow in Canada

The Spa Industry Association of Canada (SIAC) announced that 28 spas achieved the Quality Assurance Approved status in 2014, having passed an extensive inspection evaluation of their safety, hygiene and best business practices.
The only national program of its kind in Canada, its aim is to provide a consistent, reliable evaluation across all spa sizes and types. Evaluations and assessments are conducted by trained third-party experts to ensure the integrity of the program. The outcome is a reliable reference to help guide spa goers to the high quality spas they are seeking.
“Achieving Quality Assurance Approved status and the right to display the QAA logo provides the public with the comfort and confidence that the spa they have chosen exceeds professional industry standards. Consumers have the assurance they are in great hands, allowing them to relax and enjoy a wonderful spa journey,” notes Maria Micu, SIAC Treasurer and board liaison for the Standards and Practices Committee.

Elizabeth Arden turns PRO

Elizabeth Arden has teamed up with USCosmeceuTechs (USC) to launch Elizabeth Arden PRO, a skincare line featuring innovative, clinically proven technologies in both homecare and professional treatment products. A pioneer of the global beauty business, Elizabeth Arden opened her first spa in New York in 1910. This new line of products will only be sold to the professional skincare market.
"With Elizabeth Arden PRO, we have an opportunity to provide the professional skincare market with some of our most advanced skincare technology," said Joe Lewis, CEO of USC. "These products are the result of years of research and the development of cutting-edge, clinically proven ingredients. All of this results in a highly effective yet aesthetically elegant skincare line."
Travel wise this winter

Prepping for that trip south this winter should go beyond the perfect pedi for beach-ready toes; the savvy tourist knows to plan appropriate insurance, caretaking for events beyond our control. However, Canadians have a habit of skipping the insurance – a risky venture that could have a high cost.
The Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THiA) reports that 36 % of Canadians plan to travel this winter, but only 47 % of Canadians always purchase travel insurance, the majority of these people in the 55-plus category. That means a lot of Canadians are risking their wallet as they step on the plane.
"Travel health insurance should be more important than a bathing suit on vacation," says THiA president Alex Bittner. "Many people will already have some coverage through employers or credit cards and it's important to understand existing coverage and ensure you have the necessary supplemental coverage."

Health Professions Move To New Rules

Like the tortoise in the famous fable, slow and steady wins the race, and for health care professions in Manitoba, that means progress is underway towards the implementation of the Regulated Health Professionals Act (RHPA). Of 22 health-care professions, only the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Manitoba have been brought under the Act.
The RHPA was introduced in early 2009 to have all health professions regulated under a set of rules, thereby intending to replace 21 separate pieces of legislation. Recently, the Manitoba Chiropractors Association announced they were making progress. Meanwhile, the province’s massage therapists and paramedics still await news as to whether they will be designated as regulated health professions.
Lending a hand to nail breast cancer

THE TEN SPOT

Beauty Bar teamed up with the Canadian Cancer Society this October challenging Ontario men and women to paint their nails pink in support of the ManiCURES campaign to raises money for the fight against breast cancer. THE TEN SPOT, along with 45 other participating salons and spas, pledged to donate one dollar to the Canadian Cancer Society for each pink manicure done.
"THE TEN SPOT is proud to support the Canadian Cancer Society's ManiCURES fundraising campaign and we're thrilled to be a part of the work that they're doing in not only finding a cure but providing support services for women currently living with breast cancer," says Kristen Wood, CEO and Creator, THE TEN SPOT.
Prollenium offers Alyria to Canadians
Ontario-based Prollenium Medical Technologies Inc. now has the distribution rights for the complete Alyria Skin Optimizing System in Canada. Manufactured in Canada, Alyria includes over 20 products such as cleansers, moisturizers, and serums, all available exclusively through physicians.
"We are extremely excited to expand our Canadian-made line of products,” says Ario Khoshbin, managing director, Prollenium. “We are proud to produce and sell products that are safe, effective and made in our home country."

Hot ideas for male clients

One of the fastest growing demographics for the spa industry is male clients, and across the country, spas are getting creative to draw the men through their doors. Father's Day was a prime time for tantalizing packages and services for men, so we've rounded up some of the top offerings from June as inspiration for preparing to attract even more male clientele with holiday packages this winter.

Here’s a roundup of what some spas around the country did this year:

Eforea Spa at Hilton’s Second Annual Bro Bash took place June 22, allowing dad to spend Father’s Day with his family. While serving cool beer and variety of snacks, men enjoyed a massage and destressing facial, all while watching a baseball game on the big screen.

Stillwater Spa’s Special Men’s Package included an Essential Swedish Massage, De-Stress Therapy and a Sports Care Manicure and Pedicure. Gift cards were promoted for a more customized spa experience.

Blokes and Beer treatments from The Ritz-Carlton Spa in Toronto started with a Man-E-Cure before a facial. Bottles of local Mill St. organic lager were on ice while the flat screen TV played in the Gentlemen’s Relaxation Lounge.

Dermalogica offered at-home options for pampering with a free Shave Essentials Kit to minimize razor burns and bumps, while hydrating, calming and defending against skin-aging free radicals, with any two shave products purchased.

The Men’s Package at Pure Spa Charlottetown included a one-hour massage, along with a manicure and pedicure, finishing with time in the sauna.

Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant offered dads their famous Scandinavian baths on their own or bundled with a massage, for a special price.

Oncology Skin Care

The International Dermal Institute, Dermalogica’s educational resource for licensed skin therapists, hosted an Oncology Skin Care session in June. The seminar was led by International Dermal Institute (IDI) Education Manager, Holly Sherrard. Approximately 20 attendees learned all about the risks of cancer and how it can affect the skin. Oncology skincare is an advanced field of study that involves the modification of skincare applications in order to safely work with the effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Two in five Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetime.

The main topics of discussion included:

Understanding of the pathophysiology of cancer and current Canadian statistics

Who is an oncology client and what defines an oncology skincare therapist

The side effects of cancer treatments (medications, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation) and how to properly treat skin care issues

The Power of Pores

Today more than ever, women are fixated on the size of their pores. According to new research conducted among more than 2,000 adults in February 2014 by Harris Poll on behalf of L’Oreal Paris, nearly half of women (45 per cent) wish they could change the size of their pores and almost one in three women (28 per cent) are more concerned about their pore size than wrinkles. This obsession has even led dermatologists to coin the term “porexia” for those who have a neurosis about their pores.

Pores are critical in allowing skin to breathe and helping the body get rid of oils and toxins. While pore size is largely determined by genetics, oil, dirt and dead skin cells that collect on the face can form blockages within pores. When this happens, pores look larger, inflamed and can cause acne to form. It is critical to wash the face daily and use skincare products with exfoliating properties to help avoid blockages within the pores. Some products can also help diminish the large pores.

Eat for the future

We eat for our future. A study recently published by the University of Eastern Finland suggests eating healthy foods in midlife could result in nearly a 90 per cent lower risk of dementia later. Researchers defined healthy foods as vegetables, berries and fruits, fish and unsaturated fats, and unhealthy foods as sausages, eggs, salty fish, sugars, and saturated fats.

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends eating certain foods for a healthy brain, including dark-skinned fruits and vegetables, nuts, and cold-water fish. A healthy, balanced diet is an important part of any wellness program.

Skin cancer rates on the rise

The incidence of skin cancer among middle-aged people is on a steady rise, bringing to light the need to take preventative measures before enjoying the summer’s sun this year. A Mayo Clinic study published in January found that for both men and women, 40 to 60 years old, the incidence of skin cancer increased nearly 80 per cent between 1970 and 2009, with women between ages 40 and 50 showing the highest rates of increase.

The study also found that the melanoma survival rates increased by seven per cent, each year of the study, possibly due to increased awareness and screenings resulting in cancer detection at earlier stages.

Take preventative steps; wear sunscreen daily and reapply throughout the day, when possible avoid direct skin exposure to the sun, know your skin and conduct self-exams, and consult a dermatologist regularly.

Jane Iredale to receive Visionary Award

Jane Iredale, founder, president and CEO of Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, will be presented the 2014 ISPA Visionary Award during the annual ISPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, in October. Iredale was a pioneer in the aesthetics industry, as the first to offer a full line of makeup that is good for the skin, and the first to offer physicians makeup to be used to enhance patients’ experience post-procedures.

“Jane has been a supporter and leader of the spa industry since day one,” says ISPA President Lynne McNees. “She has made great strides in reaching women of all ages and nationalities and working to improve their self-confidence.”
The ISPA Visionary Award is presented annually to someone who has made significant contributions to the definition and positive movement of health and wellness over a lifetime career in the spa industry.

“It’s hard to find the words to express how honoured I am to receive this award, particularly from an organization that I have always respected so highly,” says Iredale.

Caring for the body and the planet

Spa-goers can now pamper themselves knowing they are contributing to the health and well-being of Mother Earth. Balanced Guru has launched its Giving Back Program, which offers customized limited edition product collections that are designed to assist non-profit organizations to sell and fund their causes.

Through this program, 100% of the profits from the Balanced Guru Seva Amazon Line, featuring Rainforest Body Balm, Rainforest Body Oil, and Rainforest Body Scrub, will go toward saving the Yasuni National Park in Ecuador. Balanced Guru has partnered with Off The Mat Into The World with the aim of saving one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, the Amazon Rainforest.

The L Spa gets recognized

Canadian spa owners are among the top business minds in the country, and Leah Podollan, owner of The L Spa and Wellness Centre at the Podollan Inn & Spa Grande Prairie, demonstrates the savvy entrepreneurial spirit it takes to develop and maintain a top-rate spa. Podollan recently was included as one of 33 Alberta women entrepreneurs recognized at the Celebration of Achievement Nominee Reception of the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) on January 30.

Podollan was nominated by the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce, and CEO Dan Pearcy explained the nomination. “The L Spa & Wellness Centre uses their online presence to stay connected with their clients in every way possible and boasts thousands of Facebook fans and Twitter followers… Community is important to Leah [Podollan], and her entire team. L Spa has hosted and or sponsored countless fundraisers for organizations, including the local women’s shelter and youth shelter, Big Brothers Big Sisters, STARS, the Hearth & Stroke Foundation, and many more.”

The only event of its kind in the province, the AWE reception brings together female entrepreneurs with representatives from government, industry, media and educational institutions.

New partnership redefining beauty

Canadian-made skincare line Face Addiction has partnered with AboutFace, a Canadian charity that promotes the importance of self-confidence and uniqueness, instead of physical perfection. The partnership demonstrates a shared desire to challenge current perceptions of beauty and takes aim at promoting a positive self-image and confidence among all Canadians, beginning with healthy skin.

Founded in 1985, AboutFace promotes mental and emotional well-being of individuals with facial differences through social and peer support, information and educational programs. Every year, more than 10,000 babies are born with facial birth defects in Canada, and another 50,000 Canadians acquire a facial disfigurement as a result of accident or disease. In total, over 1.5 million Canadians are living with facial differences, which can lead to low self-esteem, social rejection and isolation.
Through this partnership, events will be organized benefiting AboutFace.

Canadian Spa Resorts Hit the Big Time

The Condé Nast Traveler's Travel Readers’ Choice Awards for 2013 is out, with favourite Canadian spa resorts among the winners. Almost 80,000 readers cast 1.3 million votes in the survey. Two Canadian hot spots: Langdon Hall Country House, ON, and Wickaninnish Inn, BC, were included in the Top 100 Hotels and Resorts in the World, while British Columbia and Alberta shine on the below list of Top 15 Resorts in Canada:

Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, BC

Four Seasons Resort Whistler, BC

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, AB

Moraine Lake Lodge, Banff, AB

Fairmont Chateau Whistler, BC

JW Marriott the Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, Minett, ON

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Ucluelet, BC

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa, Victoria, BC

Fairmont Banff Springs, AB

Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise, AB

Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside, BC

Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, BC

Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, BC

Poets Cove Resort & Spa, Pender Island, BC

Pacific Shores Resort & Spa, Parksville, BC

Meet your Male Clients

A research report, by PricewaterhouseCoopers for ISPA, has all the hard facts on the fast-growing trend of male spa-goers. The spa world is no longer a women’s secret; in fact, 47 per cent of American spa clients are male. Some other interesting findings:

28% of men surveyed had hit a spa within the past year

Male spa-goers are typically between 25-44 years old

Massage remains the mens’ favourite (83% have tried)

When choosing a spa, men look for ambiance, cleanliness, amenities and staff expertise

Most popular retail purchases: shaving products (75%), followed by vitamin or health supplements (68%)

The ISPA Volume IV Spa Consumer Snapshot Initiative included 1,005 responses from a sample of U.S. male consumers. The full report is available to ISPA members, or for purchase, at
ExperienceISpa.com/index.cfm

A Defining Moment: the GSWS

Leaders of the international spa and wellness industry met in New Delhi, India, from October 4 to 7 for this year’s Global Spa and Wellness Summit under the theme, “A Defining Moment.” The 60 speakers included many of the leading thinkers on wellness and on business strategies for today, including His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Olympic medalist Bonnie St. John, and CEOs and senior executives from many of the world’s largest spa and resort corporations. This year’s GSWS attracted a record 375 executive-level attendees from 42 nations and is considered a leading global research and educational resource for the $1.9 trillion spa and wellness industry.

The 2014 GSWS will be held in Marrakesh, Morocco – known for its rich, indigenous spa and wellness culture, from ancient hammams to new sand baths, the region is expected to achieve an annual 15 per cent growth of its wellness tourism market through 2017.

Wellness Tourism Fast Becoming Major Global Market

A report released at the 2013 Global Wellness Tourism Congress by the Global Spa and Wellness Summit, says wellness-focused travel is currently a $439 billion market, projected to swell to $678.5 billion by 2017. The report by SRI International says wellness tourism represents 14 per cent of total global tourism revenues, and will grow by 9.9 per cent annually over the next five years.

Growth over the near five years is expected to come primarily from the Asian, Latin American, and Middle Eastern/North American markets, though Europe and North America will remain wellness tourism leaders overall. Some other interesting findings:

Wellness tourism is directly responsible for $11.7 million jobs worldwide, and 1.8 per cent of the world’s GDP in 2012

Spa tourism represents 41 per cent of the total wellness market, with the remaining market share including “healthy hotels” and cruises, baths/springs, fitness, yoga or lifestyle retreats, travel to nature parks/preserves, organic/natural restaurant expenditures, and other healthy lodging and retail

“Wellness tourism is poised to reshape tourism as we know it. So many 21st century forces are fueling it, including the rise of chronic diseases and the unprecedented stress of modern life,” noted Jean-Claude Baumgarten, GSWS keynote speaker and former president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council. “What people want to achieve during their ever diminished time off is undergoing a sea change, with millions more every year demanding destinations that deliver physical, emotional, spiritual and environmental health – along with enjoyment.”

Put yourself in your skin care

The science of stem cells in cosmetic applications has taken another step forward with the launch of a line of anti-aging skincare products that use the client’s own stem cells in their formulation.

Personal Cell Sciences announced its new line, U Autologous, this summer, which includes a firming serum, moisturizer, and eye cream, each genetically unique and custom blended with the clients’ own stem cells.

How does it work? Unwanted fat is removed from the client’s body through mini-liposuction, and processed to extract the stem cells, which are grown to create Autokine-CM—a blend of cytokines, growth factors, and matrix proteins unique to every person. This is cultured and blended with antioxidants, peptides, and other anti-aging ingredients. Extra stem cells are frozen for future use, and the whole process takes up to five weeks. The initial processing costs $600, and each product ranges from $260 to $540.

No stress in Winnipeg

The people of Winnipeg now have a new opportunity to relax and enjoy life. The Nordik Spa-Nature Group aims to open the doors to its new location, Thermëa, this October.

Thermëa is designed along the same philosophies as the company’s flagship Spa, Le Nordik, in Chelsea, Quebec, offering total relaxation in a serene, natural environment. Spa features include dry and steam saunas, hot, cold, and temperate outdoor baths, waterfalls, and relaxation areas. The thermal experience is complemented by a host of massage and body treatments, and an on-site restaurant to complete a luxurious experience.

Located on the Crescent Drive Golf Course, Thermëa construction was backed by $9 million investment and will create more than 100 new jobs in the area once it’s complete.